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Influenza A Protein M2 Transmembrane Domain Region
One of the CBI Molecules being studied in the University of Massachusetts Amherst Chemistry-Biology Interface Program at UMass Amherst and on display at the Molecular Playground.

The transmembrane region of influenza A viral protein M2 is a four helix bundle which has been shown to be responsible for proton transport across membranes. It is very high selective for protons over other ions and water and is necessary for the virus to regulate the pH inside the cell to mediate the release of it's viral DNA. This region has been extensively studied by several groups to determine M2’s structure and mechanisms, though there is little consensus on either.

M2 Transmembrane Domain


The spinning protein is the 25 amino acid transmembrane domain of M2 in the biologically relevant tetramer which forms the proton channel. Shown here is a recent solid state NMR structure of the region. The conditions for determining this structure mimic the lipid environment of a biological membrane. This structure shows the inhibitor amantadine bound in the M2 proton channel. Amantadine and it's analogs are used in treating the flu.

Molecular Playground banner: Region of Influenza A Viral Protein M2 Responsible for pH Regulation